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What is a Specialist High Skills Major?

The SHSM program offers students in grade 11 and 12 the opportunity to explore a specific area or career of interest and to acquire the skills and experience that will assist them in their post secondary pathway: Apprenticeship Training, College, University and the Work Place.

Each SHSM Program Includes:

1. Bundle of Credits

Consisting of eight to ten Grade 11 and Grade 12 credits, including cooperative education and the completion of Contextualized Learning Activities in specified courses

Students In SHSM Programs Have the Opportunity To:

Customize their secondary school education to suit their interests and talents through a specialized package of credits

Develop sector-recognized knowledge and skills while earning their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)

Explore, identify, and refine career goals - Cooperative education credits allow students to practice and refine skill development, network with professionals working in the sector and gain sector-specific employment experience.

Make informed decisions regarding postsecondary destinations

Access resources, equipment, and expertise that may not be available in their home secondary school

Receive a special SHSM red seal designation on their diploma

Network with potential employers

SHSM Post-Secondary Advantages:​

SHSM students identify themselves through a checkbox on OCAS and OUAC when they are applying to College or University. There are post-secondary advantages in the form of: